Review Criteria
I've been asked many times what I look for when I go to a restaurant. The truth is, I'm just an average diner who likes to write and that's how this blog was born. I don't do intricate mathematical equations on points for various categories, because, again, my degrees are in English and journalism. Instead, I tend to write about what stands out to me. That being said, there are four main things I generally look for:
1. Food - This is a given, right? I want what I'm eating to taste good! I want to feel satisfied, full and happy. I always love to see things I haven't seen before or twists on classic dishes. Above all else, I want my tastebuds to sing heavenly symphonies.
2. Service - Service is important in any business, but I think in hospitality, it's especially important. If the food is great, but I feel unwelcome, invasive or like I'm holding someone up from being somewhere, I'm not going to have a great experience. I want that comfort, the welcomeness and the overall experience to be a pleasant one.
3. Atmosphere - This could probably encompass tons of things, but the main elements are privacy, decor, cleanliness, location, parking, accessibility, views, etc. This is basically anything that I notice that isn't strictly food or service. If I had to fight with tons of other patrons for a parking spot, then get seated next to a bathroom and feel like I'm dining with the couple next to me, rather than my own partner, it's not going to make for a great feel overall.
4. Affordability - I am far from rich. Money is often tight for me, and most other people. I want to get the most bang for my buck. And that doesn't mean that the restaurant needs to be cheap; it just needs to be worth what I paid. I do not mind paying extra for a top cut of meat, excellent service and a romantic ambiance. Because I like the dining out experience. I do, however, mind paying extra for mediocre service and food.
General Guidelines: